Pop-up Sprinkler Nozzle Guard with Secondary Top Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water distribution nozzle assemblies for in-ground sprinklers are vulnerable to damage from lawn maintenance equipment and intrusion of dirt and debris, particularly due to their exposed design and increased complexity which complicates protection from soil damage.
Innovation Solution
A protective nozzle top assembly with a secondary top surface supported above the primary water sealing top, featuring a center opening for the pop-up nozzle assembly and intermediate drainage area, along with a notch for easy access and maintenance, provides enhanced protection and drainage to prevent damage and dirt intrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the nozzle assembly is exposed at the top of the sprinkler, then it is accessible for operation and maintenance, but it becomes vulnerable to damage from lawn maintenance equipment and dirt intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is nested within a protective top structure that has a recessed cavity. The top cover encloses the nozzle assembly when it is in the retracted position, providing protection while still allowing the nozzle to extend for operation. This nesting arrangement protects the vulnerable nozzle from lawn maintenance equipment and dirt while maintaining accessibility when needed.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective top structure is added to shield the nozzle assembly, then protection from damage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective top structure is segmented into multiple components: a top cover portion, a side cover portion, and a recessed cavity formation. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing and assembly process. The top cover provides primary protection, the side cover adds lateral protection, and the recessed cavity accommodates the nozzle assembly, creating a modular protective system.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the nozzle assembly is retracted into the sprinkler body, then protection from soil damage is improved, but water discharge during shutdown becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary drainage passage is created between the recessed cavity and the exterior of the sprinkler body. This drainage passage acts as a mediator that allows water to escape from the recessed cavity during shutdown, preventing water buildup and pressure issues. The drainage passage connects the internal recessed space to the external environment, enabling water to discharge while the nozzle assembly remains protected in its retracted position.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective nozzle top assembly includes a center recess to protect the attached retractable nozzle assembly when the sprinkler is in its non-operating condition. In an embodiment, the protective nozzle top assembly includes a secondary top surface positioned over a conventional primary top surface with water and dirt drainage between the two in order to provide dirt protection as well as protection from contact with lawn equipment, personnel and auto tires.